Launched in March 2024, the financial assistance program for the purchase of electric-assisted bicycles we received double the number of advance requests in a few days, according to a report sent to the council on Tuesday. The initial amount planned for the program was around $100,000, but an amount of $45,000 would be needed to fill the remaining requests.
However, independent elected officials are opposed to an increase in the subsidy, pointing out in particular that the timing was bad as the budget review was approaching.
“We understand that we are asking citizens, who have difficulty paying their mortgage, to subsidize bicycles from their tax bill, some of which cost between $3,000 and $11,000,” said Councilor Paul Gingues.
For her part, Councilor Annie Godbout argued that the decision of the mayor, Évelyne Beaudin, to bring this matter back to the table was against the “democratic vote” of the council a few weeks ago. Councilor Christine Lefèvre also defended this point. For this reason, Ms Lefèvre voted against the development, although she had originally voted for it in July.
Sherbrooke Citoyen’s elected officials responded by branding the products showing their commitment to the financial assistance program. In a survey linked to the report, 58% of the 125 respondents noted a reduction in the use of their car and said they were taking their bike more than three times a week.
In addition, 10 people say they got rid of a car after getting the electric bike.
“It’s like the last move, for people to give up their car. I don’t know if you are aware of the greenhouse gases that are reduced by doing that,” said Councilor Laure Letarte-Lavoie.
2024-08-21 17:24:58
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